What’s the meaning behind the Blue Halloween Bucket

Next week is Halloween, and that means all the little ghosts and goblins, superheroes and everything in between will be knocking on the door yelling trick or treat, so be prepared and also on the lookout for possibly a Blue Halloween Bucket.

For some kids, Halloween can be difficult if they suffer from autism, as the condition makes it difficult for them to communicate with others. It also makes it difficult for them to deal with criticism, which they often receive from homeowners after they don’t shout, “Trick or treat.”

A Pennsylvania Mom has come up with an idea to help fix the annual problem. Michelle Koening’s 5-year-old autistic son will be trick-or-treating this year for the first time in his life — collecting his candy in a blue plastic pumpkin. And she’s started a campaign to encourage parents of other autistic kids to do the same — so when homeowners see a blue bucket, they’ll know they’re dealing with a special needs child.

I have a few friends that have autistic kids and I love this idea, and so does Rachel Brnilovich, an official with the Pennsylvania Autism Action Center. “It really gives our kids an opportunity to go out, no matter their age, and experience Halloween” the way they should. Think back to when you were a kid and how much fun you had collecting all that candy. I know we’ll be paying close attention to see who shows up at my door